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We’ve only recently witnessed Google’s unusual Pixel launch, which brought in more devices than usual, and information about the next one is already starting to emerge.
Google’s Pixel 9 series is now here, introducing not only the standard Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Pro, but also the Pixel 9 Pro XL and Pixel 9 Pro Fold, which replaced the first Pixel Fold.
Now, however, expectations are rising for the next mid-range phone in the lineup, the Pixel 9a, which will replace the Pixel 8a.
While official details have yet to be confirmed, several recent leaks, renders, and speculations offer a promising look at what we can expect from this phone.
Here’s everything we know so far about the release date, pricing and features.
When will the Google Pixel 9a be released?
The Google Pixel 9a is expected to be officially unveiled at Google I/O in May 2025following in the tradition of previous ‘a’ series Pixel launches.
As a reminder, here are the launch dates of the previous models:
However, with Google’s recent trend of releasing hardware earlier than expected, there is a possibility that the Pixel 9a may arrive a little earlier than expected.
Despite this, May still seems the most likely time frame for the reveal.
How much will the Google Pixel 9a cost?
While no official price has been confirmed, it’s likely the Pixel 9a will cost around £499/$499. We saw a price increase with the Pixel 8a, so we hope Google sticks with the next model.
This affordable price has always been a selling point of the Pixel ‘a’ series, giving users a premium software experience and cameras without the flagship price tag.
For context, here are the launch prices of the previous models:
- Pixel 8a – £499/$499
- Pixel 7a – £449/$499
- Pixel 6a – £399/$449
- Pixel 5a – $449 (no UK release)
- Pixel 4a 5G – £499/$499
- Pixel 4a – £349/$349
What features will the Google Pixel 9a have?
The Google Pixel 9a is shaping up to be an attractive mid-range phone, equipped with many of the core features of the flagship Pixel 9 series, but at a lower price.
Here’s a look at what the Pixel 9a has to offer, based on leaks and rumors.
Design and construction
According to recently shared CAD renders (via Android Headlines), one of the noticeable changes in the Pixel 9a is its design, specifically the camera settings.
The camera bar, a feature of recent Pixel devices, is perhaps more subtle on the 9a and almost flush with the back of the phone. This is reminiscent of older LG phones like the V60 ThinQ.
Android Headlines also reports that the Pixel 9a may be available in four colors: Porcelain, Obsidian, Peony, and Iris.
Porcelain and Obsidian are likely classic white and black options, while Peony is a pink shade available on the regular Pixel 9 (though it could look different under the same name), and Iris will be a new bluish-purple shade.
The phone is also expected to be slightly larger than its predecessor, measuring 154mm high, 73mm wide and a thinner profile of 8.5mm.
Screen and speakers
The Pixel 9a is expected to have a 6.1-inch display, similar to its predecessor, and will likely use an OLED panel for vibrant colors and deep blacks. The edge will probably be noticeable, but expected at this price.
The front of the device may have a punch-hole camera in the center, giving it a sleek look.
Chris Martin / Foundry
Stereo speakers will likely remain a feature and provide decent sound quality for media consumption, although audiophiles may want to use Bluetooth for higher quality audio.
Performance
Likely powered by the Tensor G4 chipset, the Pixel 9a could inherit much of the performance power from the flagship Pixel 9 series.
This can be paired with 8GB of RAM and likely 128GB of storage as the base model, ensuring smooth multitasking and efficient performance across apps, games and everyday use.
Chris Martin / Foundry
There are rumors that this could be one of the last Pixel devices to use a Samsung-designed processor, as future models may switch to a Google-customized processor from TSMC.
Cameras
The phone is expected to have a dual-camera setup, with a wide and ultra-wide lens, similar to the flagship Pixel 9.
As mentioned, the camera bar is replaced this time by a more subtle pill-shaped module, making the device slimmer.
Chris Martin / Foundry
According to Android Headlines, the primary sensor will drop from 64MP to 48MP, likely the same sensor used in the Pixel 9 Pro Fold.
While the ultrawide and front cameras may remain 13MP, the larger megapixels on the primary sensor promise better photo quality. However, the Pixel 9a reportedly lacks a telephoto camera and the improved ultrawide and front cameras of the Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Pro.
Additionally, the Pixel 9a is expected to feature Google’s ‘Add Me’ AI feature, which was first seen in the Pixel 9 series, allowing users to insert themselves into group photos without anyone else having to take the photo .
As a reminder, the standard Pixel 9 features a 50MP main camera, a 48MP ultrawide camera, and a 10.5MP selfie camera.
Battery and charging
The battery life of the Pixel 9a should be improved compared to its predecessor. The Pixel 8a had a 4492mAh battery and the Pixel 9a could see a slight increase in capacity.
Despite the thinner profile, the optimized performance of the Tensor G4 chip and software improvements from Android 15 should allow the device to last a full day of moderate use.
Chris Martin / Foundry
Charging is expected to be wired only, with 18W fast charging, which is standard for mid-range phones in this category.
Software
The Pixel 9a is likely to launch with Android 15 out of the box, which was rolled out in October.
Like the rest of the Pixel family, the 9a should receive industry-leading software updates for seven years, ensuring longevity and consistent performance well into the future.
Chris Martin / Foundry
That’s all we currently know about the Pixel 9a, which will have to compete against the likes of the Samsung Galaxy A56. We will update this article if there is more news.
In the meantime, be sure to check out our recent review of the Pixel 9 Pro or go back in time and learn about the entire history of Google Pixel phones.